In Mariposa Grove (part of Yosemite Nat'l Park) we checked out these HUGE old trees. One of the oldest living trees, Grizzly Giant is dated at over 2,700 years old! Mike and I figured it would take at least 10 adults holding hands to encircle the base of this massive tree.
Although amazing for their age and size, apparently the wood in these trees is fibrous and brittle, and when they do topple over, they shatter like glass. The wood is unsuitable for construction, but it is used to make pencils, matches and toothpicks. Amazing - something so long lasting and massive....
